I would rather not take two packets back-to-back if at all possible. I look forward to your answer.

Answer

Good question.

Generally speaking, it is not recommended to adjust your menstrual cycle by stopping your current pack of the Pill earlier than planned. You would be at risk of ovulating and falling pregnant.

If ever you do miss a combined oral contraceptive pill such as Cilest (by more than 12 hours), the standard advice is to remain abstinent or take additional precautions (such as barrier methods) for the following seven days while, at the same time, continuing to take the Pill.

Despite your reluctance, with the benefit of foresight, it would be better to avoid 'missing' a pill at all.

You're right in suggesting that one solution for you would be to link your packs and therefore miss a bleed.

This is a perfectly safe and quite common practice that is used when a withdrawal bleed/period falls at an inconvenient time, such as holidays or academic examinations.

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